Thermophilic fungi that produce chitosan are relatively rare, but some strains from the *Mucorales* order, specifically within the genus *Rhizomucor*, are known to produce chitosan or chitosan-like polymers. Here are a few examples and considerations:
1. **Rhizomucor miehei**: This thermophilic fungus, often used in enzyme production for the food industry, has been shown to contain chitin and chitosan in its cell walls. Studies indicate that the mycelium can be processed to extract chitosan, though yields and chitosan content may vary based on growth conditions and extraction methods.
2. **Thermomucor indicae-seudaticae**: This fungus has shown promise as a chitosan source under specific cultivation conditions. Research on its chitosan production, particularly in high-temperature environments, is still emerging but may provide a viable option for thermophilic chitosan production.
3. **Mucor spp.**: Though not all Mucor species are thermophilic, certain strains can tolerate moderately high temperatures and produce chitosan. Some strains may be adaptable for thermophilic chitosan production with the right environmental adjustments.
For practical chitosan production from thermophilic fungi, optimizing the growth environment (e.g., pH, temperature, and nutrient levels) can enhance chitosan yield.
Thermophilic fungi that produce chitosan are relatively rare, but some strains from the *Mucorales* order, specifically within the genus *Rhizomucor*, are known to produce chitosan or chitosan-like polymers. Here are a few examples and considerations:
1. **Rhizomucor miehei**: This thermophilic fungus, often used in enzyme production for the food industry, has been shown to contain chitin and chitosan in its cell walls. Studies indicate that the mycelium can be processed to extract chitosan, though yields and chitosan content may vary based on growth conditions and extraction methods.
2. **Thermomucor indicae-seudaticae**: This fungus has shown promise as a chitosan source under specific cultivation conditions. Research on its chitosan production, particularly in high-temperature environments, is still emerging but may provide a viable option for thermophilic chitosan production.
3. **Mucor spp.**: Though not all Mucor species are thermophilic, certain strains can tolerate moderately high temperatures and produce chitosan. Some strains may be adaptable for thermophilic chitosan production with the right environmental adjustments.
For practical chitosan production from thermophilic fungi, optimizing the growth environment (e.g., pH, temperature, and nutrient levels) can enhance chitosan yield.